Analysis
Here we give you a brief overview of our analysis of "Be Here Now" by Miguel Syjuco.
The short story has an atypical structure. The plot starts in medias res, but the story lacks clear examples of rising action or climax, while the resolution is open to interpretation.
The story features only two active characters, the narrator and his fiancée, Jenna. The narrator is the main character of the story. He is conflicted about his job and struggles to re-adapt to a normal life after having been a photographer in a war zone. While Jenna respects his work, she also seems frustrated that he has trouble letting go of it and taking part in their relationship.
The main setting of the story is an apartment in modern day Canada, but there are also references to a war zone and other places. The social setting explores issues related to social media, culture, and differences between various parts of the world through the main character’s perspective.
The story is told by a first-person narrator who is also the main character. His subjective point of view dominates the narration, and he has limited knowledge about other characters and their emotions.
The language of the story is very descriptive. Similes, metaphors, and predominantly negative adjectives reflect the narrator’s conflicted point of view. Rhetorical questions encourage readers to empathise with the narrator and feel involved in the story.